If you’ve been injured on the job, there is a good chance that you are entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits. However, most employers will do what they can to prevent paying out benefits to injured employees. Sometimes, this means that your claim is denied. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to understand what you can do to fight the denial.
File an Appeal
You’ll receive written notice from the Bureau of Workers’ Compsensation if your claim is denied. You’ll usually have 14 days to file an appeal. You must do so in writing. You can choose to use the Notice of Appeal (IC-12) form or to provide the BWC with written documentation noting that you are filing an appeal.
The appeal must include your name, the name of your employer, your workers’ compensation claim number, the date of the order that you’re appealing, and why you are appealing the decision. After you provide the necessary information, you’ll need to sign and date it, then mail or fax the appeal. You can also return it in person to the BWC’s customer service office.
Hire an Attorney
Ideally, you’ll have hired an attorney to help you with workers compensation Mentor OH as soon as you were injured on the job. The second-best time to hire an attorney is now. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you in a number of ways. He or she can help you file your appeal on time, ensure you fill out all the forms correctly, and perhaps most importantly, accompany you to your appeal hearing. When you show up to your hearing with an attorney it shows that you mean business. Additionally, because a lawyer is used to being in front of judges, employers, and insurance providers, he or she can help you decipher legal jargon and help you to negotiate the best terms for your situation.
When appealing a workers’ compensation claim, always work with a reputable attorney. Look for someone who is licensed, has strong reviews, and is experienced in workers’ compensation cases.